by Kelly Rogge, KCKCC
A Kansas City Kansas Community College Staff member has been recognized by the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Brian Patrick, director of cultural outreach for KCKCC, was presented the Greater Kansas City Hispanic Collaborative Chairman’s Award at the Noche de Gala Oct. 6. The award is presented each year to a business or leader in the community who has demonstrated a commitment to the growth, evolution and professional advancement of Hispanics and other minorities in the Kansas City area.
“I was surprised and pleased when I learned that I had received this award,” Patrick said. “I appreciate being recognized in this way.”
Patrick has been at KCKCC since 2004 and is also an adjunct instructor at Johnson County Community College. He has worked on the KC Bizfest Planning Committee for the last 12 years, developing criteria for scholarships given to students who participate in the Bizfest.
“He has been a mentor to many students throughout his career and is known to encourage and challenge students to go above and beyond in their learning and career goals,” said Amarilis Valdez-Dempsey, board member and senior adviser for Latinos of Tomorrow (at the Greater Kansas City Hispanic Collaborative) at the Noche de Gala event. “He exemplifies the KC Hispanic Collaborative and Kansas City Kansas Community College mission of diversifying and empowering our youth through participation in diverse programming and careers. We are proud to have him as a partner who assist in developing the future leaders in our community.”
Founded in 1977, the goal of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is to create advancements, promotion and to develop economic opportunities with the Hispanic community. The Noche de Gala is an annual awards gala that recognizes business leaders and corporations in Kansas City.
“I received this award because of the support and encouragement I have received from our college,” Patrick said. “The administration at KCKCC has supported our Hispanic students and community for many years, and I feel fortunate to be a part of these efforts.”